Damiana

Botanical Name

Family Turneraceae

Turnera diffusa syn. T. diffusa var. aphrodisiaca

Common Names

Mexican Damiana

Spanish: Agüita de Damiana, Yerba del Pastor, Pastorcita

Cautions

None noted.

Description

Native to the Gulf of Mexico region, the Carribean, and Namibia in
southern Africa, the herb is an aromatic shrub, growing to six feet with
smooth, pale green leaves and small bright yellow flowers. It grows
wild in these areas, as well as being cultivated, preferring a hot,
humid climate. The leaves are harvested when in flower during the
summer.

History

Damiana has been the traditional aphrodisiac of the Mayan people of Central America.

Its leaves are used in Mexico as a substitute for tea and as a flavouring.

The ancient Mexicans used it as a
tonic to increase the appetite and as a digestive aid, but today it is
used mainly to treat sexual dysfunctions.

Ironically, it is also a popular cure
for a hangover, while, at the same time, used to flavour a liquor made
in Guadalajara called Damiana.

Key Actions

antidepressant

mild laxative and diuretic

reputed aphrodisiac

stimulant

testosterogenic

tonic

Key Components

arbutin (up to 7%)

volatile oil (including 10% delta-cadinene and 4% thymol)

cyanogenic glycoside (tetraphyllin)

resins (7%)

gums

tannins (4%)

Medicinal Parts

Leaves

Arbutin is converted to hydroquinone, a strong urinary antiseptic also found in other plants, including uva-ursi.

Traditional Uses

Related species are used as tonics in their respective countries: T. opifera in Brazil and T. ulmifolia in Central America.

Its testosterone principle has long
made it an herb for men treating premature ejaculation and impotence.
The fresh or dried leaves are beneficial for both sexes as a restorative
tonic to the nervous system and reproductive organs.

It is often given for painful or delayed periods, and is especially good for headaches connected to menstruation.

As a urinary antiseptic, it is used in the treatment of infections, including cystitis and urethritis.

Damiana is also a mild laxative useful in the treatment of constipation caused by poor bowel muscle tone.